If you were concerned that the first ever turbocharged M5 would be too soft and not worthy of the hallowed badge, you needn't have worried. The new M5 is the best all-round high-performance BMW ever built.

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Whereas the old M5 was a brutal machine whether you were rolling through town or flat-out on a race track, the newcomer can play both roles to a tee.

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Another surprise is the refinement and comfort levels. Switch the adaptive dampers to their softest setting and the M5 rides better than any 5 Series in the range – thanks in part to the lack of run flat tyres. The engine is hushed too and road and wind noise non-existent. But brutal pace is never too far away. The seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, throttle, dampers, ESP and steering all get three individual settings each - comfort, sport and sport+. Start to dial in more aggressive settings and the car reveals its other side. While the engine is smooth and quiet at low revs, keep your right foot planted and it charges hard to the redline - just like non-turbocharged M5s of old.

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As you'd expect, on track the M5 finds it difficult to hide its bulk - but then this is a large saloon car with four seats and a sizeable boot. The body control is excellent though and the steering pin sharp - meaning there's huge fun to be had, especially with the traction control turned off.

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In short, this car adds another string to the M5's bow. By being refined, comfortable and civilised in normal situations, but still retaining it savage character when the time calls for it, it marks itself out instantly as one of the best M cars ever made.